STATESBORO, GA. (WJCL) The Statesboro business community showed their support for Georgia Southern University Tuesday.

For the last 42 years, one day a year is set aside for university fund raising. It's called, "A Day for Southern."

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One of the things that makes Georgia Southern University what it is today is the support of the community.

Nowhere is that more evident that during the annual "A Day for Southern" fundraising event.

Statesboro businesses step up to the plate with their financial support to help with scholarship funds for the university.

"It is the local community that has been the backbone in support of Georgia Southern for many, many years," said Dr. Jean Bartels, Interim President, Ga. Southern University. "Tthis is one way that we have to actually celebrate that."

Of course, those who benefit by all the generosity are the students.

Manrey Saint-Armour, is a former Eagle football player, who is grateful for the support.

"It gives us an opportunity to really go chase our dream that we've always wanted to do," said Saint-Armour. "And do it with people backing us is very huge."

"A Day for Southern" wouldn't be possible without people like RJ Pope who give their hard earned money to the cause, but they say this is not a one-way street.

"We couldn't be here like we are without Georgia Southern with the impact they have on this community," said RJ Pope, Owner, RJ Pope Menswear. "Not only retail but any type business, with the employees, the staff of Georgia Southern, leadership we have, the students."

"There's not a person that lives in this area that isn't touched in some way by it's relationship with Georgia Southern," added Dr. Bartels.

And that relationship is why they continue to do "A Day for Southern" just one more time.